Aug. 31, 2003

Final Stats

Boone, N.C. - Saint Louis (0-1) fell to Virginia Commonwealth (1-1), but put on an impressive debut for 2003.

The Billikens started the first half with slow play for the first 10 minutes, when Coach Whitehead called for a timeout.

Sophomore forward Kelly Hellenga (Edwardsville,Ill. / Edwardsville) scored during the first half where the teams found themselves in a 1-1 knot to conclude the half.

"These kids showed a very impressive response," said Whitehead. "We fell short today and that happens in sports. If we begin tomorrow's game with Appalachian State in the same manner as we did the second half today, we'll leave the field with a win."

The Bills led the second half 3-2 when the official called for a penalty corner. One of the Rams had lofted the ball toward the goal and Billiken keeper Julie Moeckel (St. Louis, Mo. / Ladue) was called for batting at the ball. VCU made good on the stroke tying the game again, this time at three. With just two and a half minutes remaining, VCU netted the game winner.

Keeper Moeckel made nine impressive saves on the day. Senior Lindsay Lombardo (St. Louis, Mo. / Nerinx) and junior transfer Marissa Lynn (Aurora, Colo. / St. Francis) each scored in the game. Whitehead said the outstanding performance of Jamie Smeland (Louisville, Ky. / Assumption) who was charged with marking the Rams key forward was important to the momentum of the game.

In 2002, Saint Louis had only one game that it scored three or more goals. Whitehead noted that the team's spirit is high and the unit is prepared for conference play tomorrow and Tuesday.

Saint Louis - 3, penalty corners - 8

Virginia Commonwealth - 4, penalty corners - 20

Saint Louis will face NorPac opponent Appalachian State tomorrow at 1 p.m. (CT).